Craving the rich, crusty exterior and perfectly seasoned taste of Omaha Steaks? You’re not alone. Their signature seasoning blend is the secret behind their perfectly cooked steaks, but you can recreate this magic in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe captures that bold, savory flavor and even adds a customizable twist.
Let’s dive into how you can create a steak seasoning blend worthy of a steakhouse. Additionally, you can try this seasoning with Chicken fry for the Wendy’s Strawberry Salad Recipe.
What Does Omaha Steak Seasoning Smell and Taste Like?
Omaha Steak seasoning has a warm, savory aroma and a bold, balanced flavor that elevates any steak to gourmet levels. Its scent is a mouthwatering mix of garlic, onion, and earthy herbs like thyme and oregano, with smoky undertones from paprika and chili powder, and a peppery kick from black pepper.
The flavor is equally robust, blending salty and savory notes with the umami depth of garlic and onion, the herbal earthiness of dried spices, and a subtle sweetness that creates a caramelized crust on the steak. Together, these elements deliver a perfectly seasoned, smoky, and slightly sweet taste that complements the natural richness of the meat without overpowering it.
Ingredients Required for Omaha Steak Seasoning
Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make Omaha Steak Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola oil)
- 2–3 tablespoons vinegar (balsamic, apple cider, or white vinegar)
Tools Required
- A mixing bowl
- A whisk or spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Airtight container or mason jar for storage
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 24 hours (optional, for optimal flavor)
How to Make Omaha Steak Seasoning?
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: paprika, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, oregano, thyme, sugar, and onion powder. Ensure everything is well combined and evenly distributed, with no clumps. This step is key for achieving a consistent flavor throughout your steak.
Step 2: Add the Oil
Gradually mix in ¼ cup of neutral oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until it forms a thick, paste-like consistency. Be cautious not to add too much oil at once, as it could dilute the flavors. The oil not only binds the seasoning but also helps the spices adhere to the steak.
Step 3: Incorporate the Vinegar
Add 2–3 tablespoons of vinegar to the spice mixture. The vinegar enhances the flavor depth and helps the seasoning penetrate the steak. Mix well until the paste is smooth.
Step 4: Let It Rest
For best results, allow the seasoning mixture to rest for 24 hours in an airtight container. This resting period helps the flavors meld together. If you’re short on time, you can use it immediately, but the seasoning won’t be as bold.
Some Pairing Ideas for Your Omaha Steak Seasoning
1. Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes
The creamy texture and rich garlic butter flavor of mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the savory and smoky notes of the steak seasoning.
2. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon
Lightly charred asparagus spears with a squeeze of lemon bring a fresh, tangy contrast to the seasoning’s bold flavors.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
The caramelized sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts combined with crispy bacon complements the seasoning’s smoky and peppery undertones.
4. Baked Mac and Cheese
A rich, cheesy side dish balances the seasoning’s spice while adding comfort-food indulgence to the meal.
5. Chimichurri Sauce
This tangy, herbaceous sauce made with parsley, garlic, and vinegar cuts through the richness of the steak and adds a zesty kick.
6. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
The meaty, umami flavor of grilled mushrooms enhances the seasoning’s depth, making them an excellent vegetarian-friendly pairing.
7. Honey Glazed Carrots
The natural sweetness of roasted carrots with a honey glaze contrasts perfectly with the savory and smoky flavors of the seasoning.
8. Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing and light pairing to balance the steak’s richness.
9. Parmesan Truffle Fries
Crispy fries tossed with Parmesan cheese and a hint of truffle oil provide a decadent side that complements the bold steak seasoning.
10. Red Wine Reduction Sauce
A luscious red wine reduction enhances the steak’s flavors, pairing well with the seasoning’s earthy and spicy notes while adding a touch of elegance.
These pairings ensure a variety of flavors and textures to complement your perfectly seasoned steak!
Some Tips on This Omaha Steak Seasoning Recipe
Toast Your Spices
Lightly toast the dry spices in a pan before mixing to intensify their flavors and bring out their aromatic oils.
Adjust the Cumin
If cumin’s earthy flavor feels overpowering, start with ½ tablespoon and adjust to taste. This ensures the seasoning stays balanced.
Use Fresh Herbs
Substitute dried thyme and oregano with fresh herbs for a brighter flavor, especially if preparing the seasoning for immediate use.
Add a Touch of Heat
If you like a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Smoked Paprika Upgrade
Replace regular paprika with smoked paprika for an extra layer of smoky depth that enhances the steak’s charred crust.
Mix Thoroughly
Ensure the dry ingredients are evenly blended before adding oil and vinegar to avoid uneven seasoning on the steak.
Let It Rest
Allow the seasoning mix to rest for 24 hours before using it. This resting time melds the flavors and ensures a more cohesive taste.
Customize the Vinegar
Use apple cider vinegar for a mild tang, white vinegar for a clean finish, or balsamic for a touch of sweetness to suit your taste.
Massage the Steak
Rub the seasoning paste thoroughly into the steak, ensuring it adheres to every part for a flavorful crust during cooking.
Don’t Forget the Rest Time
After seasoning your steak, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate and enhance the meat.
With these tips, you’ll achieve steakhouse-quality results right in your kitchen!
How to Store Omaha Steak Seasoning Properly
To store Omaha Steak seasoning properly, transfer it into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or spice shaker, to protect it from air and moisture. Keep the container in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, to preserve the seasoning’s flavor and aroma.
If you’ve made a wet paste version, freeze it in ice cube trays, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag for easy portioning. For long-term storage, vacuum-sealing the blend or adding a food-safe silica gel packet to the container can help maintain freshness and prevent clumping. Always label the container with the preparation date for optimal use.
Omaha Steak Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup neutral oil vegetable or canola oil
- 2 –3 tablespoons vinegar balsamic, apple cider, or white vinegar
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: paprika, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, oregano, thyme, sugar, and onion powder. Ensure everything is well combined and evenly distributed, with no clumps. This step is key for achieving a consistent flavor throughout your steak.
- Gradually mix in ¼ cup of neutral oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until it forms a thick, paste-like consistency. Be cautious not to add too much oil at once, as it could dilute the flavors. The oil not only binds the seasoning but also helps the spices adhere to the steak.
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of vinegar to the spice mixture. The vinegar enhances the flavor depth and helps the seasoning penetrate the steak. Mix well until the paste is smooth.
- For best results, allow the seasoning mixture to rest for 24 hours in an airtight container. This resting period helps the flavors meld together. If you’re short on time, you can use it immediately, but the seasoning won’t be as bold.
Notes
Common Queries on This Omaha Steak Seasoning Recipe
Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Omaha Steak seasoning Recipe that people often ask.
1. What’s in Omaha Steak seasoning?
Omaha Steak seasoning typically contains a blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, dried thyme, dried oregano, and sometimes sugar for a touch of sweetness.
2. How do I season Omaha steak?
Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then rub the seasoning generously onto all sides of the meat. Let the steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate before cooking.
3. How can I make Omaha steak taste better?
To enhance the flavor, use a high-quality steak seasoning like the Omaha blend, cook the steak to your preferred doneness, and finish with a pat of garlic herb butter or a drizzle of chimichurri sauce.
4. Can I use this seasoning on other meats?
Absolutely! This seasoning works wonderfully on chicken, pork, lamb, and even fish, adding a bold, smoky, and savory flavor to any protein.
5. What’s the secret to a good crust on a steak?
Use coarse-textured seasoning to create a flavorful crust. Searing the steak on high heat and avoiding overcrowding the pan also helps achieve that perfect steakhouse-quality crust.
6. Can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste?
Yes! Feel free to reduce or increase certain ingredients, such as cumin, chili powder, or cayenne, depending on your spice tolerance and flavor preference.
7. How long should I let the seasoning sit on the steak?
For the best flavor, let the seasoning sit on the steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking. For even deeper flavor, season the steak and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
8. Can I store leftover seasoning?
Yes, store leftover dry seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to six months. For a wet paste version, refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
9. What oil should I use with this seasoning?
Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil to mix with the dry spices for a paste. Avoid oils with strong flavors, as they may overpower the seasoning blend.
10. Can I replicate Omaha Steak seasoning if I don’t have the original?
Yes, you can create a copycat version using ingredients like paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Adjust the ratios to match your taste preferences.
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